The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most visited destinations in the world, thanks to its strong economy, modern infrastructure, vibrant tourism sector, and family-friendly environment. Parents planning to travel with children must understand the Emirates visa requirements for minors to ensure a smooth journey.
This guide explains the types of Emirates visas for children, required documents, application process through Emirates Visa Online, and key rules for minors traveling with or without parents in 2026.
Why Do Children Need a Separate Emirates Visa?
Children below 21 years of age traveling to the UAE require a valid Emirates visa unless they are included in their parent’s passport and visa (applies only for children under 14 years old in specific cases). Since most minors today have their own passports, a child Emirates visa is mandatory and is processed at the same cost as an adult visa.
Types of Emirates Visa for Children
Several categories of visas are available for children traveling to the Emirates:
1. Tourist Visa (Single Entry)
-
Ideal for family vacations.
-
Allows entry into the UAE for up to 30 or 60 days (depending on visa type).
-
Can be extended if needed.
2. Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)
-
Suitable for families who may need to exit and re-enter the UAE multiple times.
-
Valid for 30 or 90 days with multiple entries allowed.
3. Emirates Cruise Visa
-
Specifically for children traveling on cruise ships docking at UAE ports.
-
Ensures smooth boarding and disembarkation during cruise itineraries.
4. Emirates Transit Visa
-
Issued for 48 or 96 hours.
-
Ideal for children traveling with parents transiting through the UAE to another destination.
Emirates Visa Rules for Minors
-
Children under 14 years old: If listed in a parent’s passport, no separate visa is required. A copy of the parent’s passport page showing the child’s details is enough.
-
Children with their own passport (under 21 years old): Must apply for a separate Emirates visa.
-
Visa fees: Same as adult visas, regardless of the child’s age.
How to Apply for an Emirates Visa for Children Online (2026)
Applying through Emirates Visa Online is the fastest and most convenient method. The required documents depend on who the child is traveling with.
Case 1: Child Traveling with Parents (Same Surname)
-
Scanned copy of passport (bio page)
-
Scanned photograph (passport-size)
Case 2: Child Traveling with Parents (Different Surnames)
-
Scanned passport bio page
-
Recent photograph
-
Child’s birth certificate
Case 3: Child Traveling with Relatives (Same Surname)
-
Passport copy
-
Photograph
-
Sometimes a parental consent letter may be requested
Case 4: Child Traveling with Relatives (Different Surname)
-
Passport bio page copy
-
Photograph
-
Birth certificate
-
Parental consent letter (signed by at least one parent)
Case 5: Child Traveling Without Parents
-
Children cannot apply for an Emirates visa independently.
-
A parent must apply for the visa alongside the child, even if the parent is not traveling.
đŸ‘‰ Note: Emirates Visa Online simplifies the process by eliminating the need for professional translation and notarization of birth certificates or consent letters.
What Does a Child’s Emirates Visa Look Like?
A child’s Emirates visa is an electronic visa (E-Visa), issued in A4 PDF format. It contains:
-
Visa category (tourist, transit, cruise, etc.)
-
Visa validity and entry type (single/multiple)
-
Unique visa number & identification code
-
Child’s full name, date of birth, and nationality
-
Passport details
There is no physical “sticker” visa; the printed E-Visa is presented at immigration and may also be required at airline check-in.
Tips for Parents Applying for a Child’s Emirates Visa
-
Apply at least 7–10 days before travel to avoid last-minute delays.
-
Ensure passport validity of at least 6 months from the date of travel.
-
Keep additional documents (birth certificate, consent letter) handy in case the visa center requests them.
-
For urgent cases, apply for an Express Emirates Visa via Emirates Visa Online (processing in 24–48 hours).
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *